Interpol has released an image of the suspect in a deliberate explosion that left Ukrainian billionaire Vadim Ermolaev fighting for his life in a Monaco hospital. The suspect, identified as Anastasiia Berezovska, 39, is wanted on suspicion of attempted murder, placing an explosive device on a public road with criminal intent, and criminal conspiracy.
Attack Details and Victims
On June 29, a backpack filled with explosives was planted inside a luxury apartment in Monaco's La Rousse district, where Ermolaev, 58, was staying with his 13-year-old son and his lover, Anna Nasobina, 46. The blast left Ermolaev in critical condition, while Nasobina required the amputation of both legs. The boy suffered less severe injuries and is assisting investigators.
Monaco prosecutor stated that the backpack was likely filled with nuts and bolts, and the perpetrator used a remote control to detonate the bomb. A car with German registration plates is believed to have been used by the suspect.
Suspect Profile and Manhunt
Berezovska, a Ukrainian national, is described as having dark hair and a tattoo, possibly of a snake, on her right arm from shoulder to elbow. She speaks German. Ukrainian sources suggest she may have been born in Kazakhstan, holds a Russian passport, and has lived in Crimea, possessing Ukrainian documents to facilitate movement within the European Union. She is reportedly pro-Vladimir Putin and linked to organized crime.
Police warn that Berezovska is armed and dangerous, likely accompanied by accomplices. Her whereabouts are unknown, but she may have fled to the Balkans via France and Italy. CCTV footage shows her wearing a black hat, tracksuit, white jeans, and trainers, dropping off bags shortly before the 9pm blast.
Witness Accounts and Official Reactions
A witness, Silvano Ippolito, who lives opposite the building, described seeing Nasobina with her feet missing, covered in blood. His wife, a doctor, applied tourniquets and performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Ippolito also saw a man staggering out, blood-soaked, and a young boy lying on the ground covered in blood.
Monaco's Minister of State Christophe Mirmand stated, 'It appears that the family was specifically targeted,' adding that surveillance footage showed the suspect walking around the area several times while waiting for the victims. Prince Albert II called the attack a 'heinous crime' and 'a shock to the entire Monegasque community.'
Victim Background
Ermolaev, a real estate mogul, was the 23rd richest man in Ukraine as of 2020. He was sanctioned in 2023 for selling alcohol in Russian-occupied Crimea.
